THE headteacher of a Royston school will retire at the end of term and is set for an African charity adventure.

Sue Kennedy has had the top job at The Greneway School for seven years having previously been deputy headteacher at the Garden Walk site during her 35-year career.

The 58-year-old said: “I’m going to do some charity work out in Africa and I’m going to do a five-day painting and decorating course and spend time with my family.

“The charity work in Africa is for the Sparrow Schools Foundation and a close friend of mine is a trustee.

“I started teaching in 1975 so I have been in the trade a long time. I will miss it but I am looking forward to doing other things. I have loved it, I’ve really enjoyed it.”

A lot has changed in the years she has been in charge at the school with Greneway teaming up with two of the town’s other schools – Meridian and Roysia Middle School – to form the county’s first multi-school academy.

It was a moment Mrs Kennedy singled out as a highlight for her time at the school.

She said: “Greneway is a fantastic, it is a passion for people to come and work here and the pupils who come to Greneway enjoy it.”

Royston’s MP praised the work of the teacher and wished her all the best for the future.

Oliver Heald said: “Sue has given great leadership to the school which has gone from strength to strength. I take a particular interest in Greneway as a former governor and I’m glad to see it thrive.

“I wish Sue all the best for the future. She has made a huge contribution nationally in the middle school arena and she is highly thought of.”

Mrs Kennedy lives in Gamlingay and will now be able to spend time with her husband Michael who has already retired.